Today in Soap Opera History (December 29)

1961: NBC's FROM THESE ROOTS aired its final episode after three and a half years. FTR star Ann Flood (Liz) went on to star as Nancy Karr on THE EDGE OF NIGHT. Millette Alexander (Gloria) and Barbara Berjer (Lynn) were also part of the cast.

1967: On THE EDGE OF NIGHT, Julie Jamison (Millette Alexander) could not escape from the menacing Harry Constable.

1972: THE GUIDING LIGHT star Theo Goetz (born in 1894) died at age 78. He was beloved as Papa Bauer, a role he assumed on radio in the late 1940s, transitioned to television in 1952 and played until his death. The show aired a funeral for him two months later where one grandson (Ed) spoke and another sang (Mike).

1982: On TEXAS, a KVIK telethon showcased some local talent.

1986: SEARCH FOR TOMORROW's replacement, game show WORDPLAY, debuted to strong ratings on NBC. But it would fade quickly and be canceled less than nine months later.

1992: Ariana Chase debuted as Kimberly Brady in DAYS OF OUR LIVES, a role she would play for six months.

2003: Actor Earl Hindman, who played Bob Reid in RYAN'S HOPE during its entire run, died at age 61 after battling lung cancer.

2004: Actor William Boyett died at age 77. His soap roles included Fred Eckert in GENERAL HOSPITAL and Walter Edmonson in THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS.

2006: On DAYS OF OUR LIVES, Ciara was born.

2008: Hayley Erin debuted as Abby Carlton on THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS.

2009: On ALL MY CHILDREN, Kendall and Zach packed up the boys and prepared to leave Pine Valley.